The stadium has a capacity of 11,800, all seated. Most of the seating is not undercover, though the Tyne and Wear County Stand is covered, and holds 3,300 people. This is the only stand used for most rugby and football matches.
The stadium lends its name to a nearby station on the Tyne and Wear Metro.
The stadium was originally opened in August 1955 and was then known as the Gateshead Youth Stadium.
On 11 June, 2006, the spectators for the Norwich Union British Grand Prix witnessed the equalling of the previous mens 100m World Record of 9.77s by Asafa Powell.